The Feast of Christ the King (officially the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe) is a Catholic feast celebrated on the last Sunday of the liturgical year (late November) to honor Jesus as ruler of all creation. Instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925, it emphasizes Christ’s sovereignty over individuals, society, and nations.
Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney +2
Key Details About the Feast:
- Purpose: The feast was created to combat secularism and affirm Christ’s royalty over the world.
- Significance: It serves as the final Sunday of Ordinary Time, immediately preceding the first week of Advent, highlighting Christ as the goal of human history and our earthly journey.
- Liturgical Celebration: The day is marked by special masses, and sometimes Eucharistic processions, focusing on Christ as King of hearts and souls.
- Origins: Pope Pius XI established the feast in 1925 via the encyclical Quas Primas, responding to rising political turmoil and secularism.
- Name Change: In 1969, Pope Paul VI renamed it the "Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe" and moved it to its current spot in the calendar.
- Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney +6
Related Feasts:
- Feast of Christ the Priest: Observed by the Catholic Church on the first Thursday after Pentecost.
- Orthodox Feasts of Christ: The Eastern Orthodox Church has eight other major "Great Feasts" related to Jesus, including Christmas and the Transfiguration.
- Wikipedia
While it originated in the Catholic Church, the theme of Christ’s lordship is shared by many Christian denominations, including Anglican and Lutheran churches, which also celebrate it.
Dr. Sarah Miller
Neuroscience Lead
Contributing to Brain1's mission of making cognitive fitness accessible to everyone through science-backed training and insightful content.
